Dart warns CSG decision will hurt consumers

Dart Energy is warning its decision to suspend all coal seam gas field operations in New South Wales, including exploratory drilling at Fullerton Cove, could have a detrimental impact on the family budget.

The company yesterday announced it is slashing 70 per cent of its workforce because of tighter State and Federal Government controls on the industry.

The decision came on the same day Planet Gas warned it was reviewing projects at Bylong in the Hunter Valley, and at Shoalhaven and near Moree.

Dart says a decision on the future drilling of pilot wells at Fullerton Cove near Newcastle will be made when the company has more clarity and certainty into the latest regulations.

Spokesman Andrew Collins says the move could end up hurting the hip pocket of Hunter residents.

"The decision for two (gas) companies to pull out of New South Wales is likely to mean further tightening of the local gas market," he said.

"If there's further tightening of the gas market this may result in higher gas prices for local manufacturers.